THE organisers of the ‘You Must be Joking’ comedy festival should be praised for their efforts.

During the 17-day festival they have managed to attract a number of top names to perform in Blackburn.

The comedians who have performed included some of the best known acts on the comedy circuit including Ken Dodd, Paddy McGuinness and Frank Sidebottom.

Last night the festival came to a close with a performance by Phil Cool while arguably the country’s best stand-up, Jimmy Carr, took the stage at King George’s Hall.

While not every event has been a sell-out, the festival has helped to bring several thousand people into Blackburn.

This will undoubtedly give the area an economic boost at a time when spending on the high street is on the decline.

It has also provided a lot of people with the opportunity to have a good laugh at a time when many of them face uncertainties with their jobs.

The comedy festival was in its second year. Hopefully it will make a return next year and the organisers can build on its successes.

It is a welcome addition to East Lancashire’s calendar of events and should go from strength to strength.